The best mosquito repellents, from sprays to lotions

Forget the citronella. These repellents have ingredients that are known to be effective.

Mosquitos are small but formidable creatures. In addition to causing itching, mosquito bites can transmit diseases like malaria, West Nile, dengue, and chikungunya, according to Richard J. Pollack, Ph.D., senior environmental public health officer at Harvard University.

Pollack explains that choosing the right mosquito repellent depends on the person and the circumstances. However, “a good repellent can dramatically reduce the number of bites a person receives,” he says. That “will not only reduce how often we’ll suffer itching from the bites, but it should also reduce the chance that we’ll become infected by the pathogens the mosquito might pass onto us,” Pollack says.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting a mosquito repellent. However, we chose Deep Woods Off as our best mosquito repellent overall because it has long-lasting protection, ingredients proven to repel mosquitos, and a nonsticky formula most people will be able to tolerate.

Continue reading more of this article, written by Jamie Davis Smith here.

IMESASISHWA MWISHO

February 7, 2025

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Kuchukua ufahamu wetu na ufahamu wa dunia zaidi kwa zaidi ya miaka 130.

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This lightweight, 2-ounce filter removes bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment, and 100 per cent of microplastics.

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Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Sawyer’s insect repellent is also very effective for ticks and biting flies, and it won’t damage gear or equipment.

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Mwandishi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

This repellent, made from 20% Picaridin, provides up to 14 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against biting flies, gnats, chiggers and sand flies.

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